Everything we know about FFXIV Mobile

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  • Set in A Realm Reborn
  • A fully functional Gold Saucer
  • Missing a few combat classes

As a long-time gamer who’s been through the trials and tribulations of countless MMORPGs, I can honestly say that the announcement of Final Fantasy XIV Mobile has sent shockwaves through my gaming community. It’s like winning the lottery and getting an invite to the Game of Thrones premiere all rolled into one!

Realizing that writing about video games is now my career is like a dream fulfilled. I consider myself fortunate for this opportunity, but if I could make one more wish, it would be to earn money by playing Final Fantasy XIV. This game is a daily part of my life, and I am utterly captivated by it. With the officially announced development of Final Fantasy XIV Mobile, I can cross another item off my bucket list. Here’s what we know so far about Final Fantasy 14 mobile.

Back in August, there were whispers that this project was being developed. We reported on it then. Hearing it officially confirmed by Naoki Yoshida himself is a different story. But for now, let’s focus on the information available: what exactly have we learned so far?

Initially, this project is being created by Lightspeed Studios, which falls under Tencent Games’ umbrella. It’s worth noting that Tencent Games is quite renowned, and to give credit where it’s due, Lightspeed has made a name for itself as one of the co-developers of PUBG Mobile. As for oversight, Square Enix is involved in the process, which means the project has some heavyweight backing.

Stand-alone or straight port?

Now onto the important bit. From everything I have read, I feel confident this won’t be a port of the current game state. I believe it will instead function as
Black Desert Mobile
does, a stand-alone. This is due to FFXIV Mobile for all intents and purposes resetting back to A Realm Reborn, the first expansion back when Yoshi-P rescued the MMORPG from the burning embers it was in.

In all the official artwork and trailers, we’ve only seen locations and characters from A Realm Reborn. We get a glimpse of Ul’dah, Limsa Lominsa, Gridania in their full splendor, along with the original Scions of the Seventh Dawn cast. Minphilia’s cameo at the end, inviting us to “Return to the Waking Sands,” could almost serve as a motto for ARR.

A slightly limited range of battle classes

Further to this point, there will only be nine battle classes released at launch. Watching the trailer this will most likely be Maurauder, Thaumaturge, Conjurer, Archer, Gladiator, Arcanist, Pugilist, and Lancer. These all evolve into a second class later, and you may notice I only listed eight. I did not see a hint of a Rogue, but Summoner is on the official artwork.

If you’re unfamiliar, the Arcanist character can transform into both Summoner and Arcanist, increasing our game jobs from eight to nine. Due to significant differences in the current and original versions, which are now a decade apart, it seems highly unlikely that there will be cross-play between the two games.

On the bright side, we’ll get to participate in all crafting and gathering activities, a significant aspect of MMORPGs, offering gear, income, and a bit of relaxing entertainment. However, it’s worth noting that these markets may be controlled by seasoned players, potentially creating an unfair advantage for newcomers. Unfortunately, there isn’t a solution to counteract this situation.

Take part in FFXIV-vaunted mini-games

Another thing we can enjoy is the delights of the Gold Saucer on the go. Fun fact, I nearly wept the first time I arrived here in FFXIV. The nostalgia from FF7 was too much. Anyway, here you can enjoy fun mini-games known as GATEs, consisting of parkour challenges, and dodging falling bamboo cut by an ancient samurai summon.

Not only can you engage in traditional chocobo racing and the iconic card game Triple Triad (often considered the best mini-game, take note Blitzball enthusiasts), but Final Fantasy 8 is a cherished favorite of mine. Although not explicitly mentioned during my observation, I did catch a glimpse of a Fashion Report scene where you earn currency by dressing up in certain outfits, making it an effortless way to farm MGP (Mystic ashen gil pieces).

When is that elusive release date?

Finally, two further pieces of content that aren’t officially included as of yet. There was a scene of characters on flying mounts. This was a mechanic introduced after AAR but was retroactively added to the expansion, so it looks like we will have that right off the bat in FFXIV Mobile. Secondly, PvP hasn’t been mentioned but I definitely saw The Wolves Den, the PvP hub, so prepare to beat your friends.

Regarding the launch date, it’s still quite some time off. You can register on the official website for any updates, but for now, there isn’t even a trial version available. China will be privileged to play test this gem first, which is set to start “soon”, followed by a worldwide release. We can hardly wait!

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2024-11-22 16:18